Public exhibition begins for Macquarie-Castlereagh Surface Water Resource Plan

Media release | 23 November 2018

The NSW Government commenced public exhibition of the draft Macquarie-Castlereagh Surface Water Resource Plan today.

The plan is one of 20 Water Resource Plans in NSW being released for public comment. The water resource plans are a key requirement of the Murray-Darling Basin Plan.

The draft Macquarie-Castlereagh Surface Water Resource Plan covers all surface water in the regulated and unregulated rivers of the Macquarie and Castlereagh Valleys.

The water resource plans have been developed with feedback and advice from a stakeholder advisory panel made up of national, state and local interest groups including scientists and councils, landholders, farmers, crop growers, irrigation, mining, environment and First Nation groups.

Department of Industry – Director Water Planning, Peter Hyde said consulting with communities is an essential part of developing and finalising these water resources plans, including working with First Nations peoples in the region.

“Water resource plans outline how each region aims to use water for the community, for cultural purposes, the environment and the economy. The plans ensure state water management rules meet the Basin Plan objectives.

“Macquarie-Castlereagh water users can now go online, review the draft plan and provide feedback. They are encouraged to attend the two public information and feedback sessions happening next month,” he said.

The draft Macquarie-Castlereagh Surface Water Resource Plan, including the draft water sharing plans, will be on public exhibition until 1 February 2018.

Public information and feedback sessions are being held at the following locations: